Allergy Relief Information

Allergy Prevention

The best way to prevent an allergy is to recognize that you have one. Often people confuse an allergy with a cold or flu. Remember colds are short-lived and passed from person to person, whereas allergies are immune system reactions to normally harmless substances. Allergies are best prevented by avoiding exposure to allergens in the first place.

Signs of an Allergy

• Sneezing, watery eyes or cold symptoms that last more than 10 days without a fever.
• Repeated ear and sinus infections.
• Loss of smell or taste.
• Frequent throat clearing, hoarseness, coughing or wheezing.
• Dark circles under the eyes caused by increased blood flow near the sinuses (allergic shines).
• A crease just above the tip of the nose from constant upward nose wiping (allergic salute).

Common Allergens and Irratants

House Dust

House dust is a component of who you are. House dust is not just dirt but a mixture of potentially allergenic materials, such as:

• fibers
• food particles
• mold spores
• pollens
• dust mites
• plant & insect parts
• hair, animal fur & feathers
• dried saliva & urine from pets
• flakes of human & animal skin

The more time you spend indoors, particularly in the fall and winter, the greater your exposure to house dust allergens.

Preventive Strategies

• Dust rooms thoroughly with a damp cloth at least once a week.
• Wear protective gloves and a dust mask while cleaning to reduce exposure to dust and cleaning irritants.
• Use electric and hot water radiant heaters to provide a cleaner source of heat than "blown air" systems.
• Reduce the number of stuffed animals, wicker baskets, dried flowers and other dust collectors around the house.
• Replace heavy drapes and blinds with washable curtains or shades.
• Replace carpets with washable scatter rugs or bare floors (wood, tile or linoleum).